PARENTS in Halton are being urged to add an MMR vaccine onto their list of back-to-school activities as the number of cases of measles looks set to reach record levels.
In 2006 there were 756 cases - the highest number recorded since the current method of monitoring began in 1995 - and this year looks set to follow that trend.
There have been 480 cases already in 2007, with the number of cases increasing at a higher rate than usual for this time of year.
Dr Mary Ramsay, a consultant epidemiologist with the Health Protection Agency, said: 'Over the summer holidays we have seen more cases of measles being reported than we would normally expect.
'This means it is crucial that children are fully immunised with two doses of MMR before they return to school.
'Measles is a highly infectious and dangerous illness, and as there is increased close contact in schools, it can spread easily. Parents should think about adding the MMR vaccine to their back-to-school 'to do' list.'
Injection reminder
THE increase in cases this year has been noted particularly in communities where vaccine uptake is lower, including in children on traveller sites, but cases are currently occurring in unvaccinated school age children.
Over the course of the year there have also been small outbreaks in primary schools and cases in people returning from other countries.
And parents are reminded of the importance of having the second dose of the vaccine.
Dr Ramsay said: 'It is important to remember that children should complete their full course of MMR vaccine.
'In January to March 2007 uptake of the MMR vaccine was at 88% for the first dose, but only 74% for the second dose.'
